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Headphone FAQ

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  • Level 40
    Abobo
    Posts: 6764
    Site Greeter
    Apr 30, 2012 8:58 am GMT
    kris9031998 wrote:
    So, how are the Bose Quietcomfort 15's?
    Planning on getting one pair for home (sennheiser hd 650's) and one for when im out of the house, so i'm gonna need some good headphones with great N.C.

    Despite the flak they receive from audio enthusiasts, Bose is the leader in noise-cancelling headphones (they invented it). If you want an over-ear headphone where noise-cancelling is a priority over sound quality, then Bose is a good bet.

    That said, if you're simply looking to reduce external noise, you might try a closed-back headphone. They require no additional power-source, and will effectively muffle external noises without compromising sound quality.

    If this is for travel, such as airports, then appearance and portability may be a factor. If you're open to a closed-back headphone and my aforementioned travel assumption is correct, consider the Audio Technica ATH-M50, V-Moda M-80s, or possibly an IEM if you're not opposed to an in-ear versus over-ear.

    Happy gaming,

    Boz
    [QUOTE="kris9031998"]So, how are the Bose Quietcomfort 15's? Planning on getting one pair for home (sennheiser hd 650's) and one for when im out of the house, so i'm gonna need some good headphones with great N.C.[/QUOTE] Despite the flak they receive from audio enthusiasts, Bose is the leader in noise-cancelling headphones (they invented it). If you want an over-ear headphone where noise-cancelling is a priority over sound quality, then Bose is a good bet. That said, if you're simply looking to reduce external noise, you might try a closed-back headphone. They require no additional power-source, and will effectively muffle external noises without compromising sound quality. If this is for travel, such as airports, then appearance and portability may be a factor. If you're open to a closed-back headphone and my aforementioned travel assumption is correct, consider the Audio Technica ATH-M50, V-Moda M-80s, or possibly an IEM if you're not opposed to an in-ear versus over-ear. Happy gaming, Boz
  • Level 38
    DJ Boy
    Posts: 7564
    User is Online
    Apr 30, 2012 11:59 am GMT
    Bozanimal wrote:
    kris9031998 wrote:
    So, how are the Bose Quietcomfort 15's?
    Planning on getting one pair for home (sennheiser hd 650's) and one for when im out of the house, so i'm gonna need some good headphones with great N.C.

    Despite the flak they receive from audio enthusiasts, Bose is the leader in noise-cancelling headphones (they invented it). If you want an over-ear headphone where noise-cancelling is a priority over sound quality, then Bose is a good bet.

    That said, if you're simply looking to reduce external noise, you might try a closed-back headphone. They require no additional power-source, and will effectively muffle external noises without compromising sound quality.

    If this is for travel, such as airports, then appearance and portability may be a factor. If you're open to a closed-back headphone and my aforementioned travel assumption is correct, consider the Audio Technica ATH-M50, V-Moda M-80s, or possibly an IEM if you're not opposed to an in-ear versus over-ear.

    Happy gaming,

    Boz

    Alright, thanks

    I once killed a man with my thumb.

    [QUOTE="Bozanimal"][QUOTE="kris9031998"]So, how are the Bose Quietcomfort 15's? Planning on getting one pair for home (sennheiser hd 650's) and one for when im out of the house, so i'm gonna need some good headphones with great N.C.[/QUOTE] Despite the flak they receive from audio enthusiasts, Bose is the leader in noise-cancelling headphones (they invented it). If you want an over-ear headphone where noise-cancelling is a priority over sound quality, then Bose is a good bet. That said, if you're simply looking to reduce external noise, you might try a closed-back headphone. They require no additional power-source, and will effectively muffle external noises without compromising sound quality. If this is for travel, such as airports, then appearance and portability may be a factor. If you're open to a closed-back headphone and my aforementioned travel assumption is correct, consider the Audio Technica ATH-M50, V-Moda M-80s, or possibly an IEM if you're not opposed to an in-ear versus over-ear. Happy gaming, Boz[/QUOTE] Alright, thanks
  • Level 38
    DJ Boy
    Posts: 7564
    User is Online
    May 1, 2012 6:42 pm GMT
    Alright, so i'm now looking for the best noise cancelling (not as important as sound quality), closed back, portable, no amp required to drive (well), closed back pair of headphones for ~$300

    I once killed a man with my thumb.

    Alright, so i'm now looking for the best noise cancelling (not as important as sound quality), closed back, portable, no amp required to drive (well), closed back pair of headphones for ~$300
  • Level 64
    Easter Egg
    Posts: 21276
    User is Online
    May 2, 2012 4:32 am GMT

    im thinking of getting either Audio Technica ATH-PRO5MK2 or the Sony MDR-V55 but not sure which one to get. which has the better sound quality and is the most comfortable?

    im thinking of getting either Audio Technica ATH-PRO5MK2 or the Sony MDR-V55 but not sure which one to get. which has the better sound quality and is the most comfortable?

  • Level 40
    Abobo
    Posts: 6764
    Site Greeter
    May 2, 2012 7:45 am GMT
    kris9031998 wrote:
    Alright, so i'm now looking for the best noise cancelling (not as important as sound quality), closed back, portable, no amp required to drive (well), closed back pair of headphones for ~$300

    I do not use noise-cancelling headphones, personally, but the Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B is very well-regarded. The new Klipsch Mode M40's are supposed to be excellent, featuring a built-in amplifier; you might be able to find them for $300 street. In general, though, over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are not very portable.

    I would strongly suggest you consider the V-Moda M-80s. You can get them from Radio Shack, and I suggest this because their return policy is excellent, so you can evaluate them for 30 days without worry. They are very portable, durable, sound excellent without amplification, come in under your budget, do a decent job blocking out most noise (airport type noise, not construction zone noise), look great, come with a carrying case, and are just wonderful, in general.

    I might also suggest an IEM (in-ear monitor). Though it's not what you asked for, I find IEMs to be the best option for reducing external noise and convenience while traveling.

    TheShadowLord07 wrote:

    im thinking of getting either Audio Technica ATH-PRO5MK2 or the Sony MDR-V55 but not sure which one to get. which has the better sound quality and is the most comfortable?



    I haven't used that particular model from Audio Technica, but I have auditioned the MDR-V55. I'm not sure what happened to Sony, but I've found their current headphone lineup to bass-heavy and muddy. If it's between the two, I'd blindly go with the Audio Technica. If you don't mind an open-back headphone, the Grado SR80i is probably the best value in the $80 price range.

    Happy gaming,

    Boz
    [QUOTE="kris9031998"]Alright, so i'm now looking for the best noise cancelling (not as important as sound quality), closed back, portable, no amp required to drive (well), closed back pair of headphones for ~$300[/QUOTE] I do not use noise-cancelling headphones, personally, but the Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B is very well-regarded. The new Klipsch Mode M40's are supposed to be excellent, featuring a built-in amplifier; you might be able to find them for $300 street. In general, though, over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are not very portable. I would strongly suggest you consider the V-Moda M-80s. You can get them from Radio Shack, and I suggest this because their return policy is excellent, so you can evaluate them for 30 days without worry. They are very portable, durable, sound excellent without amplification, come in under your budget, do a decent job blocking out most noise (airport type noise, not construction zone noise), look great, come with a carrying case, and are just wonderful, in general. I might also suggest an IEM (in-ear monitor). Though it's not what you asked for, I find IEMs to be the best option for reducing external noise and convenience while traveling. [QUOTE="TheShadowLord07"]

    im thinking of getting either Audio Technica ATH-PRO5MK2 or the Sony MDR-V55 but not sure which one to get. which has the better sound quality and is the most comfortable?

    [/QUOTE] I haven't used that particular model from Audio Technica, but I have auditioned the MDR-V55. I'm not sure what happened to Sony, but I've found their current headphone lineup to bass-heavy and muddy. If it's between the two, I'd blindly go with the Audio Technica. If you don't mind an open-back headphone, the Grado SR80i is probably the best value in the $80 price range. Happy gaming, Boz
  • Level 64
    Easter Egg
    Posts: 21276
    User is Online
    May 12, 2012 11:29 am GMT

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website (link)mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

    Edited on May 12, 2012 12:13 pm GMT Edited 2 total times.

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website ([url=http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/headphones/0edf909675b1be4d/]link[/url])mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

  • Level 63
    Big Smoke
    Posts: 6434
    May 12, 2012 4:21 pm GMT

    TheShadowLord07 wrote:

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website (link)mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

    Where does it say it comes with two cords? I know they come with m50 coiled and m50s straight cable, also the typical mini plug + big plug adapter.

    Unless they revised it than I dont think so and the reason why I got pro700mk2 before :\ I guess if you dont mind a hack job to fit a shorter cord that will work. I got a ultrasone hfi 780 before recently and they made the cords shorter so you can attach an extension cord for home use.

    Steam id: Biko is L1nsani7y Rig: i5 2500k 4.1ghz + 9700cnps Nvidia ed. l GTX 570 Evga (960/1920/2400~max) l 2x4gb PNY Optima l Corsair HX520 l e7dac/e9amplifier > Ultrasone Dj1 l Alienware M11x r1

    [QUOTE="TheShadowLord07"]

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website ([url=http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/headphones/0edf909675b1be4d/]link[/url])mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

    [/QUOTE]

    Where does it say it comes with two cords? I know they come with m50 coiled and m50s straight cable, also the typical mini plug + big plug adapter.

    Unless they revised it than I dont think so and the reason why I got pro700mk2 before :\ I guess if you dont mind a hack job to fit a shorter cord that will work. I got a ultrasone hfi 780 before recently and they made the cords shorter so you can attach an extension cord for home use.

  • Level 64
    Easter Egg
    Posts: 21276
    User is Online
    May 12, 2012 8:50 pm GMT

    Bikouchu35 wrote:

    TheShadowLord07 wrote:

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website (link)mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

    Where does it say it comes with two cords? I know they come with m50 coiled and m50s straight cable, also the typical mini plug + big plug adapter.

    Unless they revised it than I dont think so and the reason why I got pro700mk2 before :\ I guess if you dont mind a hack job to fit a shorter cord that will work. I got a ultrasone hfi 780 before recently and they made the cords shorter so you can attach an extension cord for home use.

    Cable 1.2 - 3.0 m (3.9' - 9.8') Coiled, OFC litz wire

    mentions a 4 feet and a 10 feet cable i think.

    [QUOTE="Bikouchu35"]

    [QUOTE="TheShadowLord07"]

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website ([url=http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/headphones/0edf909675b1be4d/]link[/url])mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

    [/QUOTE]

    Where does it say it comes with two cords? I know they come with m50 coiled and m50s straight cable, also the typical mini plug + big plug adapter.

    Unless they revised it than I dont think so and the reason why I got pro700mk2 before :\ I guess if you dont mind a hack job to fit a shorter cord that will work. I got a ultrasone hfi 780 before recently and they made the cords shorter so you can attach an extension cord for home use.

    [/QUOTE] Cable 1.2 - 3.0 m (3.9' - 9.8') Coiled, OFC litz wire

    mentions a 4 feet and a 10 feet cable i think.

  • Level 63
    Big Smoke
    Posts: 6434
    May 12, 2012 9:01 pm GMT

    TheShadowLord07 wrote:

    Bikouchu35 wrote:

    TheShadowLord07 wrote:

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website (link)mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

    Where does it say it comes with two cords? I know they come with m50 coiled and m50s straight cable, also the typical mini plug + big plug adapter.

    Unless they revised it than I dont think so and the reason why I got pro700mk2 before :\ I guess if you dont mind a hack job to fit a shorter cord that will work. I got a ultrasone hfi 780 before recently and they made the cords shorter so you can attach an extension cord for home use.

    Cable 1.2 - 3.0 m (3.9' - 9.8') Coiled, OFC litz wire

    mentions a 4 feet and a 10 feet cable i think.

    I think they meant coiled up length & maximum length.

    Steam id: Biko is L1nsani7y Rig: i5 2500k 4.1ghz + 9700cnps Nvidia ed. l GTX 570 Evga (960/1920/2400~max) l 2x4gb PNY Optima l Corsair HX520 l e7dac/e9amplifier > Ultrasone Dj1 l Alienware M11x r1

    [QUOTE="TheShadowLord07"]

    [QUOTE="Bikouchu35"]

    [QUOTE="TheShadowLord07"]

    is the audio technica ath-50 coiled version has a detachable cord? their website ([url=http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/headphones/0edf909675b1be4d/]link[/url])mention it comes with 2 cords. i want to replace it with a straight 1.2m cord

    [/QUOTE]

    Where does it say it comes with two cords? I know they come with m50 coiled and m50s straight cable, also the typical mini plug + big plug adapter.

    Unless they revised it than I dont think so and the reason why I got pro700mk2 before :\ I guess if you dont mind a hack job to fit a shorter cord that will work. I got a ultrasone hfi 780 before recently and they made the cords shorter so you can attach an extension cord for home use.

    [/QUOTE] Cable 1.2 - 3.0 m (3.9' - 9.8') Coiled, OFC litz wire

    mentions a 4 feet and a 10 feet cable i think.

    [/QUOTE]

    I think they meant coiled up length & maximum length.

  • Level 40
    Abobo
    Posts: 6764
    Site Greeter
    May 14, 2012 8:53 am GMT
    If you want straight cable just be sure to get the Audio Technica ATH-M50s. The "s" at the end of the model number denotes the straight cable.

    Happy gaming,

    Boz
    If you want straight cable just be sure to get the Audio Technica ATH-M50s. The "s" at the end of the model number denotes the straight cable. Happy gaming, Boz
  • Level 7
    Sectoid
    Posts: 19
    May 14, 2012 9:51 pm GMT

    I don't know so much before the these forums. That really great forum for me and I think also for all readers........

    I don't know so much before the these forums. That really great forum for me and I think also for all readers........

  • Level 7
    Sectoid
    Posts: 81
    May 16, 2012 11:14 am GMT
    Earphones is very important. It can harm you also if you don't use it correctly.
    Earphones is very important. It can harm you also if you don't use it correctly.
  • Level 46
    Mutoid Man
    Posts: 5742
    User is Online
    May 26, 2012 7:40 pm GMT

    I currently own a pair of JVC HA-RX700 headphones, and I'm looking to upgrade to headphones in the $100-$150. I've heard great things about both the Audio Technica's ATH-M50 and the Grado SR 125i headphones, both can be found for similar prices. Does anyone have any recommendations over which one is better? I listen to everything from Slipknot, to Eminem, to Ella Fitzgerald, to Pink Floyd and I listen to both compact discs, wave files, and vinyl records. Which headphones will give me the best sound quality for $150? Other headphone recommendations are welcome. Thanks in advance for the help.

    I currently own a pair of JVC HA-RX700 headphones, and I'm looking to upgrade to headphones in the $100-$150. I've heard great things about both the Audio Technica's ATH-M50 and the Grado SR 125i headphones, both can be found for similar prices. Does anyone have any recommendations over which one is better? I listen to everything from Slipknot, to Eminem, to Ella Fitzgerald, to Pink Floyd and I listen to both compact discs, wave files, and vinyl records. Which headphones will give me the best sound quality for $150? Other headphone recommendations are welcome. Thanks in advance for the help.

  • Level 63
    Big Smoke
    Posts: 6434
    May 26, 2012 11:33 pm GMT

    DarkGamer007 wrote:

    I currently own a pair of JVC HA-RX700 headphones, and I'm looking to upgrade to headphones in the $100-$150.

    My friends has those rx700 since I paid him off for his ultrasone dj1 (hfi 580) so I recommend that for $120-150 range.

    Good all arounder with some emphasis on bass.

    From a head-fi review:ATH-M50 is no slouch either and I think it's a great value at a bit over $100 but my ears have been too "fouled" by 8 years of SR-80 listening to I am going to keep my HFI-580. I will be wearing these every day so I am hoping the pads will wear down and soften up over time (otherwise I will have to get new pads)

    [lol, at the last comment]Now, if anyone is interested in a virtually brand new ATH-M50S, let me know

    sauce to headfi review

    Steam id: Biko is L1nsani7y Rig: i5 2500k 4.1ghz + 9700cnps Nvidia ed. l GTX 570 Evga (960/1920/2400~max) l 2x4gb PNY Optima l Corsair HX520 l e7dac/e9amplifier > Ultrasone Dj1 l Alienware M11x r1

    [QUOTE="DarkGamer007"]

    I currently own a pair of JVC HA-RX700 headphones, and I'm looking to upgrade to headphones in the $100-$150.

    [/QUOTE]

    My friends has those rx700 since I paid him off for his ultrasone dj1 (hfi 580) so I recommend that for $120-150 range.

    Good all arounder with some emphasis on bass.

    From a head-fi review:ATH-M50 is no slouch either and I think it's a great value at a bit over $100 but my ears have been too "fouled" by 8 years of SR-80 listening to I am going to keep my HFI-580. I will be wearing these every day so I am hoping the pads will wear down and soften up over time (otherwise I will have to get new pads)

    [lol, at the last comment]Now, if anyone is interested in a virtually brand new ATH-M50S, let me know ;)

    [url=http://www.head-fi.org/t/531691/review-ath-m50-vs-hfi-580-vs-sr-80]sauce to headfi review[/url]

  • Level 40
    Abobo
    Posts: 6764
    Site Greeter
    May 29, 2012 8:52 am GMT
    DarkGamer007 wrote:

    I currently own a pair of JVC HA-RX700 headphones, and I'm looking to upgrade to headphones in the $100-$150. I've heard great things about both the Audio Technica's ATH-M50 and the Grado SR 125i headphones, both can be found for similar prices. Does anyone have any recommendations over which one is better? I listen to everything from Slipknot, to Eminem, to Ella Fitzgerald, to Pink Floyd and I listen to both compact discs, wave files, and vinyl records. Which headphones will give me the best sound quality for $150? Other headphone recommendations are welcome. Thanks in advance for the help.


    I have used both headphones at length, and they are both very good. Some thoughts:

    The ATH-M50 will perform similar to your HA-RX700 (full-disclosure: my daily headphones). For the most part they will offer superior performance for Slipknot, Eminem, games, and movies if you like a little punch in your music. It will also offer superior noise isolation, both in and out.

    The Grado SR125i will offer superior performance for Ella Fitzgerald and Pink Floyd, with wide open, breathy vocals and an expansive soundstage. It may also offer better spacial reproduction, which can be good if you're playing a FPS with either CMSS-3D or Dolby Headphone. These are more comfortable than the ATH-M50's but, because they are on-ear, do not offer very good isolation.

    In this particular case I would personally I would go with the SR125i's. Normally I recommend the ATH-M50 over everything: They are pretty much the best value in headphones. However, you already own a pair of HA-RX700's, which are basically the poor-man's ATH-M50's. The SR125is offer a bigger change relative to the HA-RX700's, and are very comfortable. You will probably find yourself switching between the two depending on to what you want to listen, which is not a bad thing.

    To make an upgrade from the HA-RX700 worthwhile, I'd want to jump up to the Denon AH-D2000, which is a serious change in budget, as well. If possible, find a local hi-fi shop where you might audition a few. We've got a great one in Harvard Square near Boston (Audio Lab); not sure where you live.

    Good luck!

    Boz
    [QUOTE="DarkGamer007"]

    I currently own a pair of JVC HA-RX700 headphones, and I'm looking to upgrade to headphones in the $100-$150. I've heard great things about both the Audio Technica's ATH-M50 and the Grado SR 125i headphones, both can be found for similar prices. Does anyone have any recommendations over which one is better? I listen to everything from Slipknot, to Eminem, to Ella Fitzgerald, to Pink Floyd and I listen to both compact discs, wave files, and vinyl records. Which headphones will give me the best sound quality for $150? Other headphone recommendations are welcome. Thanks in advance for the help.

    [/QUOTE] I have used both headphones at length, and they are both very good. Some thoughts: The ATH-M50 will perform similar to your HA-RX700 (full-disclosure: my daily headphones). For the most part they will offer superior performance for Slipknot, Eminem, games, and movies if you like a little punch in your music. It will also offer superior noise isolation, both in and out. The Grado SR125i will offer superior performance for Ella Fitzgerald and Pink Floyd, with wide open, breathy vocals and an expansive soundstage. It may also offer better spacial reproduction, which can be good if you're playing a FPS with either CMSS-3D or Dolby Headphone. These are more comfortable than the ATH-M50's but, because they are on-ear, do not offer very good isolation. In this particular case I would personally I would go with the SR125i's. Normally I recommend the ATH-M50 over everything: They are pretty much the best value in headphones. However, you already own a pair of HA-RX700's, which are basically the poor-man's ATH-M50's. The SR125is offer a bigger change relative to the HA-RX700's, and are very comfortable. You will probably find yourself switching between the two depending on to what you want to listen, which is not a bad thing. To make an upgrade from the HA-RX700 worthwhile, I'd want to jump up to the Denon AH-D2000, which is a serious change in budget, as well. If possible, find a local hi-fi shop where you might audition a few. We've got a great one in Harvard Square near Boston (Audio Lab); not sure where you live. Good luck! Boz
  • Level 40
    Abobo
    Posts: 6764
    Site Greeter
    Jun 1, 2012 7:17 am GMT
    Heh: You needn't re-post your original comment. When you've had a moment to read the FAQ, come back with questions; it's my pleasure to assist.

    Happy gaming,

    Boz
    Heh: You needn't re-post your original comment. When you've had a moment to read the FAQ, come back with questions; it's my pleasure to assist. Happy gaming, Boz
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